VSU has long upheld a reputation as a highly accredited institution, dedicated to fostering an inspiring education, a safe learning environment and a nurturing community. This mission is proudly stated, but some students wonder if their investment truly yields benefits in all aspects of their academic and daily lives. 

According to the Office of Strategic Research and Analysis, only about half of the university’s first-year students return for a second year. This significant turnover raises a critical question: Why are so many students leaving? 

Some students point to a lack of essential services that impact their everyday experiences. Food options on campus often fall short of expectations and the health center’s operating hours do not always align with student needs. Career services have also faced criticism for offering nonspecific advice that doesn’t address specific career paths and opportunities. 

Parking remains another sore spot for students. It almost seems as if there are endless fees for metered spots, parking decks and citations which add up, leaving students frustrated. The sentiment is clear: If parking is expensive, fees should be managed to increase campus transportation accessibility. 

Housing also presents significant challenges. Many students in on-campus residences deal with inconsistent amenities like cold showers, flooding damage, mildew growth and poor air conditioning during the revolving seasons. These inconveniences leave students questioning whether their tuition fees are well spent. 

It’s not all doom and gloom at VSU, though. The campus offers many resources designed to enhance student life and career success. Centers like the Women’s Center, Small Business Development Center and the Entrepreneurship Center on North Campus or the New Media Center in Odum Library support student career and academic elevation. 

VSU offers valuable resources that many students might not fully utilize. Academic advising helps students stay on track and the IT Helpdesk in Odum Library provides essential tech support. The Writing Center offers help with grammar and citations, while the Counseling Center provides free, confidential mental health services. 

Recreational and practical support options also exist. The Campus Recreation Center offers fitness opportunities and the Student Health Center addresses medical needs. Fun activities and events are also hosted throughout campus. Students can venture to gallery exhibitions, sales and theater shows at the Fine Arts Building. Located on North Campus is the Copeland African American Museum, where students can learn about and see multiple artifacts connected to African American cultural figures and history.  

Additionally, the Office of Financial Aid helps students navigate funding options, while First-Year Programs aim to ease the transition from high school to college. These are only a few enhancements on campus, but are departments and students doing their diligence in finding and spreading awareness?  

The real issue might be awareness. Do students know these resources exist and understand how to access them? As VSU strives to uphold its mission, addressing these concerns transparently could make all the difference. It is about creating an environment where students feel valued, supported and prepared for the future they’re investing in. Addressing these concerns head-on can transform the VSU experience to a campus that is efficient at making every tuition dollar count. 

This Editorial reflects the opinion of the Spectator Staff. Photo Courtesy by Spectator.